Upper Merion Township, Pa. to ban plastic utensils in next phase of single-use plastic ban

UPPER MERION TWP., Pennsylvania (WPVI) -- Officials in Upper Merion Township are implementing phase two of its single-use plastic ban starting Monday.

Public establishments within the Montgomery County township will no longer be allowed to offer plastic utensils.

This includes all restaurants and bars, officials say.

That means no plastic forks, spoons, or knives will be used whether you're dining in or out at establishments in the area.

It's all part of the township's Single-Use Product Regulations ordinance.

Phase one of the new initiative began in January.

In that phase, businesses were prohibited from handing out single-use carry-out bags and straws, among other things.

Some residents told Action News that while the new rules are for the greater good, they can sometimes be frustrating.

"I'm just surprised by all the changes in the world today," said Laura Kocher from Collegeville. "I can't stand the new straws they give out, the paper ones. But I get it, it's all for the better if it's going to keep the environment safer. I'm all for it."

"I think it's more of a hassle than anything," added Zeev Magid-Slav from King of Prussia.

Magid-Slav works in the service industry as a bartender and says the move away from plastic will likely be a good thing for business.

However, he also believes the service aspect will take a hit as people adjust.

"There's definitely going to be a cost-savings there for the restaurants, but for the service part of it, people aren't going to fly on it too much," Magid-Slav said.

The goal of the ban is to reduce litter in neighborhoods, parks, and rivers.

The Upper Merion Township Board of Directors voted the measure through last year in an effort to promote the distribution and use of reusable plastic bags, utensils, and containers.

Some people told Action News that while they see the environmental benefits, they're not totally on board.

"It is annoying not to be able to just get things that we can use and throw away real quick. I guess it's a good thing but it is a pain," said Lauren Yampolsky.

Others are also wondering whether the ban will truly make a lasting impact.

"Yeah, it's good. I mean I'm sure less plastic, but is it really helping? You have like, people like Taylor Swift flying in their jets every other day," said Magid-Slav.

Businesses could face fines between $50 to $250 for noncompliance after a written warning is issued, according to township officials.